Dave Ball, a musician from Soft Cell, has passed away at the age of 66. His death was confirmed through official channels moments ago, with reports stating that he died yesterday (October 22nd). A statement from Soft Cell revealed that Dave Ball peacefully passed away in his sleep at his London home. Marc Almond, Dave’s longtime collaborator in Soft Cell for nearly five decades, leads the tributes, calling Dave a “wonderfully brilliant musical genius.” Dave Ball dedicated himself to music from beginning to end, with his most recent performance being a headline act with Soft Cell at the Rewind Festival in Henley-on-Thames, entertaining over 20,000 fans. Soft Cell’s debut album, ‘Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret,’ released in 1981, marked a pivotal moment in British pop music, setting a new benchmark for synth-driven sounds. By merging unconventional sounds with catchy pop melodies — along with a raw edge in both music and lyrics — Soft Cell cleared the path for other synth duos like Yazoo, Eurythmics, Pet Shop Boys, and Erasure. Their second single, ‘Tainted Love,’ a cover of a song from the American scene that gained popularity in Northern Soul clubs, became an iconic track, significantly enhanced by Dave Ball’s innovative electronic rework. Soft Cell’s latest album, ‘Happiness Not Included,’ was released in 2021. Marc Almond has shared a heartfelt tribute, which is provided below. “It’s difficult to articulate this, let alone accept it, especially since Dave was in such a good emotional state. He was enthusiastic and delighted with the new album that we had just finalized days ago. It’s heartbreaking because 2026 was poised to be a wonderful year for him, and I find some comfort in knowing he heard the completed record and considered it exceptional. Dave’s music has never been better. His melodies and hooks are distinctly Soft Cell, yet he consistently elevated it to new heights. He was a truly brilliant musical genius, and we have been on this journey together for nearly 50 years. In our early days, we were brash and challenging, two determined art students wanting to forge our own path, even if it was not the right one. We were inexperienced and made errors, but we never truly acknowledged them as mistakes; they were simply part of our adventure. Dave and I were always somewhat different, yet perhaps that’s why our chemistry worked so effectively. “Whenever we reunited after extended separations, there was always that warmth and connection. Our deep mutual respect lent a unique strength to our songwriting. We shared plenty of laughter, a similar sense of humor, and a passion for films, books, and music. Dave had bookshelves brimming with literature and a wide array of fascinating music references. He was the heart and soul of Soft Cell, and I take pride in what we’ve accomplished together. “It seems fitting that our next (and now final) album together is titled ‘Danceteria,’ as it harkens back to New York City in the early 1980s, where many of our musical ideas were born. That was a significant era for us. While quintessentially British, we often felt like an honorary American band. We’ve always embraced the myths and narratives surrounding Soft Cell, and ‘Danceteria’ will now serve as an album that encapsulates our journey. I only wish Dave could have stayed long enough to celebrate our 50 years together in a couple of years. He will forever be cherished by Soft Cell fans who appreciate his work, and his music and memory will continue on. At any moment, someone around the world will be enjoying a Soft Cell song. “Thank you, Dave, for being such a monumental part of my life and for the music you created. I wouldn't be where I am without you.” Main Photo Credit: Mike Owen

      An exhibition highlighting one of the most significant youth subcultures in British history is currently being hosted at Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, running until January 2026.

      Ben Sherman is the principal sponsor of the exhibition titled ‘The In Crowd: Mod Fashion & Style 1955-66,’ which celebrates the Mod subculture and its connection to the brand.

      In conjunction with this archival exhibition, Ben Sherman is reflecting on over sixty years of influence at the heart of British culture and style through a key showcase named ‘Ben Sherman: The Decades.’ Established in 1963 during a vibrant youth movement that sought independence and creative freedom from older generations, Ben Sherman left a lasting influence on Mod culture in the UK.

      This prominent exhibition includes more than 35 mannequins, each adorned in specially selected Mod attire from the collections of the late Roger K. Burton, an innovative costume designer and former Mod, who collaborated with iconic artists like David Bowie, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones. Tragically, he passed away just two months after the exhibition's opening in May.

      The Ben Sherman showcase features essential archival items from the brand, including its well-known shirts and Harrington jackets, as well as historical pieces and unique designs worn by famous musicians and cultural icons over the years.

      Visitors will have a unique chance to test their understanding of Mod fashion and its cultural significance through various interactive activities, with the chance to win exclusive Ben Sherman merchandise. Special promotions and gifts will also be available at the Ben Sherman store in Brighton.

      Both exhibitions, ‘The In Crowd: Mod Fashion & Style 1955-66’ and ‘Ben Sherman: The Decades,’ will be accessible until January 4th, 2026.

      Join us on WeAre8 to delve into global cultural events. Follow Clash Magazine HERE as we navigate through clubs, concerts, interviews, and photo shoots. Get backstage glimpses and insights into our world as the excitement unfolds.

      Subscribe to the Clash mailing list for the latest updates on music, fashion, and film news.

Dave Ball, a musician from Soft Cell, has passed away at the age of 66. His death was confirmed through official channels moments ago, with reports stating that he died yesterday (October 22nd). A statement from Soft Cell revealed that Dave Ball peacefully passed away in his sleep at his London home. Marc Almond, Dave’s longtime collaborator in Soft Cell for nearly five decades, leads the tributes, calling Dave a “wonderfully brilliant musical genius.” Dave Ball dedicated himself to music from beginning to end, with his most recent performance being a headline act with Soft Cell at the Rewind Festival in Henley-on-Thames, entertaining over 20,000 fans. Soft Cell’s debut album, ‘Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret,’ released in 1981, marked a pivotal moment in British pop music, setting a new benchmark for synth-driven sounds. By merging unconventional sounds with catchy pop melodies — along with a raw edge in both music and lyrics — Soft Cell cleared the path for other synth duos like Yazoo, Eurythmics, Pet Shop Boys, and Erasure. Their second single, ‘Tainted Love,’ a cover of a song from the American scene that gained popularity in Northern Soul clubs, became an iconic track, significantly enhanced by Dave Ball’s innovative electronic rework. Soft Cell’s latest album, ‘Happiness Not Included,’ was released in 2021. Marc Almond has shared a heartfelt tribute, which is provided below. “It’s difficult to articulate this, let alone accept it, especially since Dave was in such a good emotional state. He was enthusiastic and delighted with the new album that we had just finalized days ago. It’s heartbreaking because 2026 was poised to be a wonderful year for him, and I find some comfort in knowing he heard the completed record and considered it exceptional. Dave’s music has never been better. His melodies and hooks are distinctly Soft Cell, yet he consistently elevated it to new heights. He was a truly brilliant musical genius, and we have been on this journey together for nearly 50 years. In our early days, we were brash and challenging, two determined art students wanting to forge our own path, even if it was not the right one. We were inexperienced and made errors, but we never truly acknowledged them as mistakes; they were simply part of our adventure. Dave and I were always somewhat different, yet perhaps that’s why our chemistry worked so effectively. “Whenever we reunited after extended separations, there was always that warmth and connection. Our deep mutual respect lent a unique strength to our songwriting. We shared plenty of laughter, a similar sense of humor, and a passion for films, books, and music. Dave had bookshelves brimming with literature and a wide array of fascinating music references. He was the heart and soul of Soft Cell, and I take pride in what we’ve accomplished together. “It seems fitting that our next (and now final) album together is titled ‘Danceteria,’ as it harkens back to New York City in the early 1980s, where many of our musical ideas were born. That was a significant era for us. While quintessentially British, we often felt like an honorary American band. We’ve always embraced the myths and narratives surrounding Soft Cell, and ‘Danceteria’ will now serve as an album that encapsulates our journey. I only wish Dave could have stayed long enough to celebrate our 50 years together in a couple of years. He will forever be cherished by Soft Cell fans who appreciate his work, and his music and memory will continue on. At any moment, someone around the world will be enjoying a Soft Cell song. “Thank you, Dave, for being such a monumental part of my life and for the music you created. I wouldn't be where I am without you.” Main Photo Credit: Mike Owen

Ben Sherman is the main sponsor of the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery's exhibition titled ‘The In Crowd: Mod Fashion & Style 1955-66’.

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